Even from a young age, I was always fascinated by books and learning and taking in as much information as I could. I was the one who always asked "But why?" and annoyed everyone by my curiosity. While I was a little nerdy, I guess it paid off! I was so happy to get to college and be around so many like-minded people who also wanted to absorb everything. Here's a picture of me on my first day of second grade!

My mom was one of the biggest inspirations in my life. She always encouraged me to work harder, think bigger, and love everyone as much as possible. She drove me to stay grounded and always focus on school, even when I was more into playing basketball.

When I was a senior in high school, my mom passed away from breast cancer. It was the hardest thing I ever went through, and especially seeing my dad going through it. Because the treatment had been so expensive, we didn't have the money to afford college on our own. I was thrilled when I realized my dream college had a scholarship fund that I could apply for - and because my mom had driven me to work hard, I earned it. Here's a photo of my mom with me at my junior prom. Love you forever, Mom!

As soon as I got to school, I was overwhelmed by how many choices there were - could I major in everything?! My first-year seminars were helpful, as I eventually found my passion in economics and business. It was a great experience to be with so many incredible students and professors who shared my passion for breaking things down and understanding them. I thought about the businesses I wanted to start - and knew my mom would be proud of me. I felt so lucky each day knowing that someone else's generosity allowed me to be here.

College wasn't without its fun, too! As much as I enjoyed my classes, I also made lifelong friends and memories. One of my favorite experiences was getting to study abroad with some of my best friends. We explored all over and got to see so many incredible things in Europe! I'll never forget memories like the spring festival, or Halloween on the quad. I'll always look back and smile at those memories!

Graduating made me nervous - I had made so many awesome memories here and I didn't want to leave. But I knew that there was a reason I had come here and I needed to find my purpose after walking across that stage. I finished school with honors and a degree in Economics and Business Administration. Working with the alumni department helped a ton - they connected me with other alumni with similar interests, some who had also been on the same scholarship. I knew I had a deeper purpose, and I sought it out in starting my own business.

During the last few months of my mom's life, she was stuck in the hospital. We were so grateful for all of the amazing doctors, nurses, and staff that helped her during that time - they made sure she was comfortable and not in pain. The whole time I was there, I kept thinking about how they could have a better experience for families and patients to interact with each other and not feel disconnected from the hospital around them.

When I graduated, I knew that there was an opportunity to use my degree for something meaningful, and I started a company that enhances that hospital experience. Some large hospital systems have started to use it and it's amazing to see how much good we can do!

I couldn't talk about my college experience without talking about my mom and why her memory leaves such an impact on me. She raised us to look out for other people and to give back when you can. My success comes from knowing I want to make Mom proud and it's so important for me to help out others when I can.

My experiences here were unmatched, and I hope that my story can inspire you to feel the same. If you're on the scholarship, I implore you to make the most out of every experience you can. This school is unmatched and every day here is a gift! Continue to dream, learn, and care for others. Thank you!